Panel: ECUMENICAL FILOCALIA FOR THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY: WHAT TO SAVE WHEN THE WORLD ENDS



588.2 - THE AGE TO COME AS CALL AND JUDGMENT: THE ESCHATOLOGICAL OUTLOOK OF METR. JOHN ZIZIOULAS AND ITS RELEVANCE FOR THE FUTURE OF ECUMENISM

AUTHORS:
Asproulis N. (Volos Academy for Theological Studies ~ Volos ~ Greece)
Text:
Metr. John Zizioulas' eschatological outlook represents one of his most significant contributions to ecumenical theology. He suggests that eschatology should not be viewed merely as one of many chapters in church theology; instead, it should be regarded as a foundational approach that influences all aspects of the church's theology and life. It centers on a person—the resurrected Christ, referred to as the Eschatos—rather than merely a theoretical discussion about the end of time. Moreover, eschatology must not be treated as an excuse or justification for personal or ecclesiastical shortcomings. Rather, it serves as a continuous call for openness to the ever-renewing presence of the Spirit and functions as a form of judgment. This judgment will ultimately determine, at the conclusion of history and in God's coming kingdom, what holds meaning and value—both in terms of history and tradition, as well as in doctrine and our individual and communal lives.